As a farmer you face a unique set of factors that can negatively impact your mental health, including long, isolated workdays, financial pressures, unpredictable weather conditions and changeable policies.
Access the following organisations for help…
The Farming Community Network (FCN) – Free, sympathetic and confidential help, from a volunteer who understands farming and rural life. Call their confidential helpline 03000 111 999 7am-11pm, every day of the year or email [email protected] or visit https://fcn.org.uk/
Yana (Rural Mental Health Support) – Cconfidential support for those involved with farming or other rural businesses. Call 0300 323 0400, email [email protected] or visit https://www.yanahelp.org/
RABI (The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) offers free mental health support to farming people of all ages. Call their confidential helpline 0800 188 4444 24/7 or email [email protected] for freely available, in person, telephone or video counselling from someone who understands how tough farming can be. To access online wellbeing support and counselling visit https://explore.kooth.com/rabi/
Financial support is also offered to farming people facing hardship. Visit https://rabi.org.uk/
Living Life to the Full – Get to the root cause of your symptoms with some online courses and support specifically for Farming Communities. https://llttf.com/home/living-life-to-the-full-series/llttf-for-farming-communities/
General Local Support…
Pepper’s and the Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafe – On the High Street in Oakham, drop in sessions for people struggling with their mental health, for a chat and a cuppa. Several welcoming activities throughout the month to get confidence and support. https://www.peppersasafeplace.co.uk/
There are particular drop in times for anyone struggling with their mental health and needing immediate support, and transport could also be provided. https://www.peppersasafeplace.co.uk/our-services/neighbourhood-mental-health-cafe
Get Out and About – Sometimes it’s a listening ear and knowing you’re not alone that starts you back on the right track. Sometimes you might need a helping hand getting out and about, to get out enjoying the old things you used to love doing, or getting into something new. Check out the local area to see what’s about… https://services.thejoyapp.com/
Free NHS Talking Therapies – Refer yourself for NHS Talking Therapies. For those who live in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland and aged 16 or over. You do not need to see a GP first and can call directly. Please call VITA Health Group on 03300 945595. Or visit their website for more information or refer online… https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.uk/nhs-services/nhs-mental-health/leicester-leicestershire-rutland/
Further support and information…
Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board – https://ahdb.org.uk/support-for-farmers
Extra support…
If you are still struggling, please contact the surgery to book a review. You may be offered an appointment with our dedicated Mental Health Practitioner to decide what other support you may need. In some cases, medication may be needed to support your mental health and aid your recovery.